May 2021: A new chapter in outdoor learning at Archbishop Cranmer

A new eco-friendly outdoor reading library was recently created at Archbishop Cranmer CE Academy and had a grand opening during Mental Health Awareness Week.

Environmental and Wellbeing Ambassadors of the Pupil Parliament expressed the idea of creating a new outdoor reading library so that children could enjoy reading outdoors, reaping the benefits of the sunshine, fresh air and nature.

The library will be used by pupils across the whole school during break times and the school’s dedicated ‘reading for pleasure’ times. It will also complement the new outdoor learning area, which was created by staff, parents and community volunteers at the beginning of the pandemic.

Year 5 pupil Evie Cresswell, who is Pupil Parliament Environmental Ambassador, said, “I am so excited to start reading outside and proud to have created a mindful area that is eco-friendly.”

The outdoor library was up-cycled from a former kennel, which was donated to the school. It was repainted, fitted with shelves, wallpapered with recycled blinds and also includes a solar panel for sustainable lighting. This up-cycling project was in conjunction with the school’s collaboration with Nottingham Trent University and formed part of a legacy project for one of the teacher trainee students.